Fort Hays State University's virtual undergraduate business degree program has been given a "Best Buy" designation by the independent editorial team at GetEducated.com.

FHSU ranked second in GetEducated.com's Spring 2006 national cost survey with an estimated four-year tuition cost of $15,600.

"They have put out a list of quality programs and then ranked them according to the expenses associated with each program," said Dennis King, director of FHSU's Virtual College.

Based on a review of 78 competing universities nationwide in the regionally accredited class, the designation indicates that FHSU's program offers a high quality distance degree to a national audience at tuition and fee rates well below the national average. The national average four-year tuition for a regionally accredited distance bachelor's degree in business is $40,224.

The recent survey ranked East Carolina University, Greenville, N.C., first. Tuition for in-state students averages $10,560 in four years, but non-residents can expect to pay an average of $59,640.

"Our virtual bachelor's in business administration in management program ranked No. 2 overall, but it's No. 1 in the nation for students outside of North Carolina," said Dr. Steve Williams, dean of the College of Business and Leadership.

"What they are saying is, 'Look, here's a quality program that's affordable,' which is what we've been saying all along. We aren't sacrificing quality by being affordable," said King.

Fort Hays State University promises Affordable Success -- a high-value education at a reasonable price. Combining low tuition and fees with financial aid available for nearly 80 percent of students, the university keeps its promise of affordability on campus and online.

But "affordable" is only part of the promise. A great education is the key to "success" in life. FHSU faculty, staff and administrators are deeply committed to providing students one-on-one interaction essential for academic success. This commitment extends beyond the physical classroom. It also applies to distance learning students receiving their education in the virtual classroom.

"This recognition demonstrates that 'Affordable Success' is achievable at Fort Hays State University since FHSU offers a quality online Bachelor of Business Administration degree to students inside Kansas and around the world at the lowest price available" said Williams.

"The B.B.A. program is one of 20 outstanding programs offered through the Virtual College. We expect the others to be ranked high when students and companies begin ranking them," said King.

GetEducated.com's mission is to help consumers get educated about what it takes to succeed in online learning. It is the only online degree directory that offers free basic listings to Council on Higher Education Accreditation-accredited colleges and universities.